Frequently Asked Questions

Photo Credit: Jordan Perrett Mojave Rattlesnake

Questions for Rattlesnake aversion

1. What am I paying for?

You’re investing in over 15 years of professional dog training and behavior experience, plus a lifetime of reptile handling and snake behavior knowledge. This isn’t just obedience—it’s specialized safety training using live snakes in a controlled setting.

2. Is this training guaranteed to work?

No training can guarantee a dog will avoid all snakes in every situation. What we do provide is the strongest foundation possible: real-world exposure, clear learning, and a rehearsed avoidance response that could save your dog’s life.

3. Will my dog be shocked?

Yes. We use e-collar aversion training because it’s fast, effective, and clear when used by experienced professionals. The stimulation is brief and precisely timed to create a lasting association between snakes and avoidance. The shock feels like the equivalent to a static shock, its surprising but not painful.

4. Can I stay with my dog during training?

Absolutely—we encourage it. Observing your dog’s body language and reactions helps you reinforce the training later. You’ll learn just as much as your dog.

5. Are the snakes venomous? Is it safe?

Yes, we use live rattlesnakes. They are kept in secure, escape-proof containers. Dogs never come into physical contact with the snake, and the setup is designed for total safety.

6. Do you offer refreshers?

Yes—and they’re free.

Once your dog has trained with us, you’re welcome to come back for no-cost follow-up sessions. We want the behavior to stick and the safety to last.

7. What if my dog is shy, reactive, or has behavior issues?

We have extensive experience with dogs of all temperaments. We’ll adjust the training approach to fit your dog and create a calm, successful experience.

8. What age should dogs be for training?

We begin training dogs between 6 and 9 months of age. At this stage, they’re mentally mature enough to process the training but still early enough to create long-term habits.

9. Can I bring more than one dog?

Yes—but we do not offer multi-dog discounts unless it’s a private session. Dogs are trained individually and spaced apart for safety and focus.

10. Can you come to my home or ranch?

Yes! We offer mobile sessions for private clients and small private groups throughout Otero County and nearby areas.

What to Do if You See a Snake in Your Yard

  • Stay calm and give the snake space

  • Visit our snake ID page to determine what species it is.

  • Keep kids and pets away

  • Watch from a safe distance

  • Use a gentle spray of water from a hose to encourage it to move on

  • Do not try to handle or kill it (this is when most bites happen)

  • If the snake doesn’t leave or you feel unsafe → Call a professional for humane removal

Call now!